Best Mission Burrito San Francisco
San Francisco is a melting pot of cultures and food, making it the perfect place to explore the diverse world of Mexican cuisine. The Mission District, in particular, is a hub for some of the best Mexican food in the city, especially when it comes to burritos. In this article, we'll take a look at the best Mission burritos in San Francisco, where to find them, and what makes them so delicious.
What Makes a Great Mission Burrito?
Before we dive into the best Mission burritos in San Francisco, let's first establish what makes a great burrito. A good burrito should have a balance of flavors and textures, with each ingredient complementing the others. The burrito should be filling but not overwhelming, and the tortilla should be soft and pliable.
Another hallmark of a great Mission burrito is its size. These burritos are known for their massive portions, often weighing in at over a pound. They are meant to be a meal in themselves, with everything you need for a satisfying lunch or dinner wrapped up in one convenient package.
Top Mission Burritos in San Francisco
El Farolito
El Farolito is a Mission District institution, known for its massive and delicious burritos. They are especially well-known for their al pastor, which is marinated pork that's cooked on a spit and sliced to order. The meat is tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice. El Farolito also offers a wide range of salsas and toppings, so you can customize your burrito to your liking.
La Taqueria
Another Mission District institution, La Taqueria has been serving up classic burritos since 1973. Their burritos are simple but delicious, with perfectly cooked beans, rice, and meat. They are also famous for their salsa, which has just the right amount of heat. The tortillas at La Taqueria are especially noteworthy - they are made in-house and have a slightly crispy texture that adds a nice crunch to the burrito.
Papalote
Papalote is a newer addition to the Mission District burrito scene, but it has quickly become a favorite among locals. Their burritos are on the smaller side compared to some of the other spots on this list, but they are still packed with flavor. Their signature dish is the "super" burrito, which comes with guacamole and sour cream. The guacamole is especially noteworthy - it's made fresh daily and has the perfect texture and seasoning.
Pancho Villa
Pancho Villa is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. They offer a wide variety of burrito fillings, from traditional meats like carne asada and al pastor to less common options like chile relleno and nopales (cactus). They also have a salsa bar with a variety of options, so you can try different combinations with each bite.
Conclusion
San Francisco's Mission District is home to some of the best Mexican food in the country, and the burritos are no exception. Whether you're a longtime resident or just visiting the city, be sure to check out some of these top spots for a delicious and filling meal. Just be sure to bring your appetite!